To be successful in the sport of agility, the dog must be a skillful
jumper. Every course your dog will ever run is primarily made
up of jumps; yet, is it the least understood skill set in
agility. When a dog understands how to jump, he will run more
smoothly, efficiently, and decisively. Based upon Linda Mecklenberg's
jump training, this class is geared towards both dogs just
learning to jump and is also recommended for those who can benefit from increasing their dog's skill level. The class will increase your awareness of your
dog's natural responsiveness to your body language and the
effect it has on his or her jumping. Among other things, and
your dog will be taught how to cue and understand extension
and collection. With collection, your dog will be wrapping
jumps cleanly and efficiently. This will increase your speed and success on the course. Correct jumping skills means fewer
dropped bars and off-courses. We will work on single jumps,
grids, boxes, and other combinations to improve your handling
and your dog's understanding of how to jump.
You will also work on acceleration, deceleration, and lateral
motion cues. Access to a jump (or several) outside of class
is required. For best results, plan on working on jump drills
several times a week.

In addition to jump training, we will work on increasing your dog's weaving skills. Weaving is one of the most difficult skills in agility for your dog to learn. We will work on your dog's understanding of this obstacle, as well as imrpoving entries from all angles. When your dog increases his or her confidence in the weaves, speed will increase as well.